THE STORY:

Did you know that Houston has about 4,000 homeless people according to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development? Did you know that the number one reason these people became homeless was because they lost their job? Followed by bills higher than earnings, evicted by family member, abuse at home, etc. The number one reason that people choose to ignore the homeless is because the majority believe that the truth behind their situation is due to involvement with drugs and alcohol. Guess what folks? This is the LAST reason. Although it is true, it only encompasses 9% of homeless people according to the facts. We need to open our hearts and be mindful of their unfortunate situations. Winter is here and many do not have access to local shelters and lack sleeping bags or thick blankets. Many do not even have the bare necessities such as socks, shoes, sweaters, jackets and coats to keep warm and are already shivering out there in this cold rainy weather.

F.E.A.S.T is an acronym that stands for Families Engaging And Serving Together. Toiletries for Families is a sister non-profit organization that has the same values and goals; to improve the lives of the homeless in our local communities. We have already collaborated with other local charitable organizations in efforts to feed the homeless in Houston and had a successful event last month in providing a wonderful thanksgiving dinner to our friends in need. What we noticed was that many were walking around without sweaters or jackets in the cold. We have made efforts in providing these essentials by the generous donations of many that were able to spread the word to local friends and family. These people need our help and with winter here, they need AT LEAST sleeping bags if they can't have access to shelters.

Can you imagine sleeping out in the freezing cold without layers of clothing on? I certainly cannot. We need to count our blessings and help the less fortunate. Please donate whatever you can. Every dollar counts. We will ensure that every penny is utilized in providing our friends sleeping bags and blankets. This is the primary goal for this particular fundraiser. Please join our efforts in doing so. Please donate and spread the word. Our fundraiser deadline is Dec 13.